ENMU searching for new Zia coach

March 22, 2006

Freedom Newspapers

Eastern New Mexico University has begun the process of finding a women’s basketball coach after announcing last week that Dan Buzard’s contract would not be renewed for next season.
ENMU athletic director Mike Maguire said Wednesday that a selection committee is being put together. He said several applications have already been received, and anticipates the number of applicants could eventually grow to around 100.
Maguire said the school is seeking someone with previous college experience. While ENMU wants to have someone in place by the end of the semester in May, he hopes it can be done sooner.
“We’re trying to get it (filled) as quickly as possible,” he said. “We’re just looking for a successful coach who can come in and moved the team up a level.”
Buzard, who spent the 2004-05 season recovering from a cancerous brain tumor, was 47-63 in four seasons as head coach. A Portales High and ENMU graduate, he spent 17 years coaching in the women’s program, the first 13 as an assistant to Wayne Moore.
Buzard led an injury-depleted Zias squad to an 11-17 record this season, including 3-11 in the Lone Star Conference South Division.
Maguire said the school will hire an assistant to replace Chad Walker, who also was not retained.